Abstract:
This research aimed to investigate the effect of rapid urbanisation on water service delivery in
Tanzania. The study utilised the Resource Dependency Theory, Socio-Ecological Systems
Theory, and Urban Ecological Theory supported by various research methods. Moreover, the
study adopted a quantitative research approach and descriptive research design in which a
structured questionnaire was applied to collect data from 110 respondents. Furthermore, data
analysis was done through SPSS in testing for Pearson Chi-Square, One-Way ANOVA, and
ordinal regression analysis. The results indicated that deforestation, flooding and freshwater
extraction affect water service delivery in Tanzania. Thus, the government needs to work
towards ensuring sustainable and reliable water service delivery for Tanzanians while
safeguarding the environment and enhancing the community's resilience against future
challenges. Also, water supply and sanitation authorities should take proactive steps to
mitigate the adverse effects of deforestation, flooding, and freshwater extraction on water
service delivery while ensuring more reliable and sustainable water delivery to the community.
Nevertheless, higher learning institutions are valuable contributors to addressing the
environmental challenges affecting water service delivery and promoting a sustainable and
resilient
future
for
the
communities
they
serve.
